Does Michael Bloomberg Want To Be President, Or The Sheldon Adelson Of The Center?

New York City Mayor and prominent billionaire Michael Bloomberg stepped into the national election season in a big way on Wednesday, promising an “eight figure” spending campaign in the final three weeks before November 6th. As my colleague Ryan Mac wrote yesterday, Bloomberg spending upwards of $10 million would put him in elite company: only two other billionaires, conservatives Sheldon Adelson and Harold Simmons, have donated as much to political causes this cycle.

Bloomberg’s announcement raises the obvious question: is this his first step in positioning to run for President in 2016, or would he rather sit back and be the kingmaker of the center? Both paths are possible. Remember, Bloomberg’s term as mayor of New York City ends in 2013. As of the recent release of the Forbes 400, his estimated net worth was $25 billion—making him the 10th-richest person in the U.S.

We’ve seen how that kind of money can influence politics. Adelson, who first popped onto the national radar when he bankrolled Newt Gingrich’s bid in the Republican presidential primaries, pledged to donate up to $100 million if necessary to defeat President Obama. So far, he has spent over $36 million backing Republican candidates and PACs. That’s pennies to a billionaire, but it allows Adelson to exert influence over issues he cares about, namely Israel and the “socialization” of America.

Bloomberg’s spending is no different in purpose—only in the causes he champions. He switched from Democrat to Republican before running for mayor in 2001, but subsequently left that party to become an Independent in 2007. In his statement on Wednesday, Boomberg announced he would target issues like gun control, education reform, and gay marriage. He has been a vocal advocate for all three in the past.

“The Mayor has always stepped forward to back candidates that are willing to cast aside party politics, and candidates who are willing to stand up to special interests to make the right decisions for the people they represent,” said Howard Wolfson, who will oversee the spending as Bloomberg’s deputy mayor for government affairs and communications.

With Bloomberg’s sizable wallet, his efforts could match or exceed those of Adelson and other major political donors in the coming years. But Bloomberg’s independent political leanings could mean money streaming into campaigns for politicians in the middle, rather than on one particular extreme. Reports already say that he will be supporting candidates ranging from Missouri Democratic Senator Clare McCaskill, Massachusetts Republican Senator Scott Brown, and Maine Independent senate-hopeful Angus King.

Of course, despite the influence Bloomberg can have simply writing checks, he may decide to personally jump into the ring. He has long been rumored as a potential candidate for president, but has never actually stepped into that fray. Could this spending, on the eve of a major election, be his launching pad into the 2016 presidential race? A spokesperson for Mayor Bloomberg’s office did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the possibility.

“It’s critically important that we have elected officials in Washington, Albany, and around the nation who are willing to work across party lines to achieve real results. I’ve always believed in the need for more independent leadership,” Bloomberg said in his statement, going on to say that’s why he would be supporting certain candidates. But that stated rationale could just as easily work as justification for his own presidential run.

Perhaps this timely announcement is Bloomberg flexing his muscles and testing the waters for a planned run. By inserting himself into the political conversation, he’s certainly drawing attention to his independent ambitions and potentially making a play for the bipartisan center of the country. Either way, Bloomberg’s worth keeping an eye on going forward.

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this is cool!!! Where do I sign up to campaign for Mr. Bloomberg for President???

Can we also get some independents to run for the House and Senate seats?????

Note to Mr. Bloomberg – for the sake of our country, take this step. It will be difficult, as you will have the bulls eye on you of both the “established” parties AND the whole of the political elites in DC – BECAUSE they know we have to change and don’t want it as it will shut down their gravy train!!!

we havent heard the final decision yet from mr. bloomberg, if he announces his candidacy, i say why not. he has the capability of leading our country and also resources. for now lets just wait and watch for further announcements. Isextraordinary Information with Inspiration

Only in New England East coast or California could Bloomberg be considered a moderate. It is telling that this “progressive” Democrat became a “Republican” Just long enough to get into office. This guy is the ultimate big government individual liberty hater. Bloomberg would love to micromanage the daily lives of all Americans just as he does in New York. Let’s see to it that he goes back to private life and runs his company and leaves the rest of us out of his social engineering plans.